PROFESSION: Concert Master, Lee's Summit Symphony and
Associate Professor of Music, University of Central Missouri, where he teaches violin, viola, and conducts the University Symphony Orchestra.

MOST INSPIRING TEACHER: Jim Hatch, Past Director of the Jacksonville High School Orchestra, Associate Principal Bass at the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and Director of the Arkansas Youth Symphony.

HOW DID HE INSPIRE YOU? "If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn't be doing what I am doing and where I am today. He was wonderful! He used to do things like bring me a record (Mahler 5, Brahms Violin Concerto, Mabern Quartet, etc.), give it to me nonchalantly on a Friday and say, ‘Take this, listen to it, and tell me what you think.

"And then on Monday he would ask, 'Ah, so what did you think about that?’ It got me listening to all different types of classical music from all periods and genres. It was questioning, you know, and instilled critical listening in me—which really helps when you are teaching violin and college conducting.

"Later in high school he would invite a couple other kids in orchestra and me and take us on a Friday night to the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra rehearsal. I got to listen to the same thing I listened to on the records. It was a wonderful experience.

"He would then drive us back to Jacksonville, take us out to Mazzios Pizza, talk about the rehearsal, and then drop us back off at home. How wonderful is that? And later on in in high school I auditioned for the orchestra and got in!

"Mr. Hatch really encouraged critical thinking of music, listening to music and discussing music. . . which could be so difficult to put into words something that is abstract. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor!"

MY PERSONAL ADVICE:

“Listen to your teachers, they have experience.
They are trying to help you avoid mistakes they have made and they want you to be the absolute best you can be.”